As Firehouse 51 evolves, fans wonder: is Severide rising to power — or stepping aside?

A Quiet Change in Command?

Season 14 of Chicago Fire has fans buzzing — not just because of cliffhangers and rescues, but due to something more subtle: a changing of the guard. At the center of it all is Kelly Severide (Taylor Kinney), who may be heading toward his biggest transformation yet.

Is Severide being primed to replace Chief Pascal? Or is someone else waiting in the wings to take his place?

Leadership on the Horizon

Since his first appearance back in Season 1, Severide has grown from impulsive firefighter to battle-hardened, strategic leader. But this season, fans have noticed a shift — and it’s not just about heroics.

Following the tragic death of Pascal’s wife, Chief Pascal (Dermot Mulroney) has begun stepping back. In his absence, Severide has taken on more responsibility. He’s shadowing the chief. He’s leading calls. He’s filling the command vacuum — and doing it flawlessly.

Pascal’s trust in Severide is clear, and it might not be temporary.

The Firehouse Cliffhanger

The Season 14 fall finale raised the stakes — and the questions. Severide was trapped in a burning apartment building, along with two other team members. The danger felt real, and while it’s unlikely Chicago Fire will kill off one of its most beloved characters, the close call may be setting up something more symbolic.

Another test. Another moment where Severide rises above fear and leads with precision.

Could this be the moment that finally convinces Pascal — and the viewers — that Severide is ready to take over?

A Bigger Role… or a Passing of the Torch?

There’s another angle to consider. If Severide is moving up to chief, it may signal a shift within the cast. As fans speculate on Eamonn Walker’s possible departure (Chief Boden), and with Pascal already pulling back, is the show preparing for a new generation of leadership?

Some fans even wonder: if Severide doesn’t accept the role, could another character — like Stella Kidd — be in line to lead?

Stellaride remains a power couple, but their arcs may be diverging as leadership opportunities grow. Could we see Firehouse 51 divided by ambition?

What Comes Next

As Season 14 returns in January 2026, all eyes are on how Pascal’s mentorship plays out. Is this the slow, respectful handover of power? Or a setup for something more dramatic?

Severide has already proven himself time and again. But this season, he’s doing it in the shadow of a man who may be preparing to step down — and that changes everything.